Fig & La Quercia salad. / Photo special to The Register

Baru at the Art Center

Butternut squash soup may be one seasonal offering.

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After 20 years under the steady, talented hand of Lisa LaValle, the Art Center Cafe will open on Sept. 17 as Baru at the Art Center, guided by another of Des Moines’ culinary luminaries, David Baruthio, and his team.

Baru at the Art Center will focus on fresh, seasonal food with a clean, urban feel much like the Art Center itself, Baruthio said. “Nothing deep-fried!”

Baruthio’s wife and partner, Sara Hill, says they have been checking out other museums in the region and have picked up a few tips on what works. “We want the menu to reflect a little bit of Iowa and plan to serve some signature Iowa products, like Peace Tree beer.”

The menu will change along with the center’s major shows, three or four times a year, and include weekly features. Prices will start at about $10. If you want lunch on opening day, it’s by reservation only.

While the bright, uncluttered feel of the cafe will remain, Baruthio plans to extend its hours to better match those of the Art Center; the kitchen will generally close one hour before the museum. After daily lunch service (including Sundays), the restaurant will offer beverages, goodies and a few simple items until close. On Thursdays, Baru at the Art Center will be open for a prix fixe dinner, with the last reservation being taken for 7 p.m.

Meanwhile, LaValle will take over the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden cafe, which is under construction on the west side of the geodesic dome. That cafewas originally slated to open in September, but will more likely open later in the fall, she said.

Baruthio has some sentimental reasons for taking over the space as well as sound business ones. “When I came to Iowa for the first time in 2006, Sara Hill took me to lunch at the Art Center,” he said. “I can remember like it was yesterday; I felt the calm and serenity of the beautiful setting and it was inspiring to me. … The Art Center reminded me of France and spending time in my grandparents’ chalet. ... I think the Art Center cafe complements Baru 66. We are looking forward to a fantastic adventure and are grateful for this opportunity.”